Thirteen Filipino researchers from various fields were recognized for their contributions to national development during the Department of Science and Technology – National Research Council of the Philippines’ (DOST-NRCP) 2026 Annual Scientific Conference (ASC) and 93rd General Membership Assembly (GMA) held at the Philippine International Convention Center on March 13.
The council honored eight achievement awardees, three member emeriti, and two service awardees, highlighting work ranging from infectious disease modeling and indigenous berry antioxidants to democratic resilience and sustainable mining practices. The awardees received trophies, plaques of recognition, the traditional putong (a floral wreath symbolizing honor and gratitude), and cash prizes of PHP 50,000 for achievement awardees and member emeriti, and PHP 40,000 for service awardees.
Mathematical Modeling for Public Health Response
Among the achievement awardees, Dr. Aurelio A. de los Reyes (Mathematical Sciences) focuses on infectious disease modeling by translating biological processes into dynamical systems and equations. “We are trying to solve it (health problems) numerically or mathematically, and hopefully, potentially, it could impact policymaking to have a better public health response,” he said.
Local Foods, Fermented Products, and Indigenous Berries for Better Health
Medical Sciences awardee Dr. Leslie Michelle M. Dalmacio and Chemical Sciences awardee Dr. Katherine Ann C. Israel both emphasized improving health and nutrition through local food and produce. Dr. Dalmacio noted that obesity has increasingly affected Filipinos, leading to her research on Philippine fermented food and its effects on gut microbes. Dr. Israel advocated for the use of indigenous berries such as bignay, lipote, and duhat, exploring their antioxidant properties to provide benefits “beyond nutrition and help prevent non-communicable diseases.”
Veterinary Molecular Epidemiology and Sustainable Mining
In Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Dennis V. Umali highlighted his work addressing outbreaks using molecular epidemiology in animals, particularly from the poultry industry. His research informed recommendations for the national bird flu vaccination initiative in 2023.
Geologist Dr. Jillian Aira Gabo-Ratio (Geological Sciences) explained the need for a strong scientific foundation regarding metallic deposits in the Philippines. “We work with industry partners… government agencies and local stakeholders so that together we can hopefully make [mining practices and exploration practices for national resource management more sustainable],” she shared.
Democracy, Disinformation, and Cultural Memory
In the Social Sciences and Humanities, awardees Dr. Aries A. Arugay and Dr. Charlie S. Veric focused on the country’s socio-political landscape. Dr. Arugay presented studies on the “diseases of democracy,” comparing Philippine politics with Venezuela and Bolivia, and assessing electoral disinformation during recent national polls.
Dr. Veric said he seeks to “reconstruct the history (Philippine independence from the Americans) so that our cultural memory is going to be stronger. […] A strong economy will have to depend on a strong culture, because it is culture that bonds us. It […] gives us memory, it pushes us forward.”
Member Emeriti: Forestry, Health Research Systems, and Inclusive Science
Member Emeritus awardee Dr. Ramon A. Razal (Agriculture and Forestry) underscored his work advancing research, including initiatives such as the Philippine Forestry Education Network (PFEN) and strengthening DOST-NRCP’s presence in the regions.
Dr. Marita V. Tolentino-Reyes took pride in establishing the Philippine National Health Research System in 2013 and institutionalizing research ethics committees across the regions, reaffirming that the Philippines has a “bright research ethics system.”
National Scientist Lourdes J. Cruz stressed that research should be inclusive and help communities solve the crises they face. “We were giving it [research] to the community. [Whatever expertise,] as long as you can help, then you can work together with the community,” she said.
Part of Broader DOST Strategy
The 2025 NRCP Awards, held as part of the 2026 ASC and 93rd GMA, recognizes work that advances knowledge, strengthens the research community, and contributes to national progress through scientific inquiry and scholarly excellence.
The initiative is one of many under the DOST aimed at providing science-based, innovative, and inclusive solutions across four strategic pillars: human well-being, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability. These pillars embody the mantra OneDOST4U: Solutions and Opportunities for All.
For more information, visit www.nrcp.dost.gov.ph.#
